Rainbows, beads fly high at Capitol Pride 2012

The parade spanned one and a half miles around Dupont Circle and nearby neighborhoods. (WTOP Photo/Claire Yan)

Claire Yan, special to wtop.com

WASHINGTON – Thousands flocked to Dupont Circle Saturday for the 37th annual Capital Pride Parade, which featured floats, music and plenty of rainbows.

The parade spanned one and a half miles around Dupont Circle and nearby neighborhoods. Missy Toms, director of external relations, said about 100,000 people were expected to attend.

“We have all different kinds of contingents, from community groups to special interest groups, politicians, drag queens, anything you could imagine comes out,” Toms said. “We have families and we have people in the public schools who are walking with us. So it’s a whole variety of people.”

“What a great experience,” said Monte Durham, grand marshall of this year’s parade and co-host of “Say Yes to the Dress.” “Come on down and enjoy the parade!”

Each year, groups compete for various prizes. This year’s teams included the D.C. Rollergirls, Different Drummer and D.C. Public Schools. Participants are encouraged to consider to get creative when developing their floats. Awards include the Liberace Award for most outrageous float, the Tina Turner Award for best decorated, and the Village People Award for best small group.

Sunday, Capital Pride continues with a festival on Pennsylvania Avenue. It will feature chef tastings and a wine bar for $20 at the new Taste@Pride tent, with participating restaurants such as Boqueria, Luke’s Lobster and Georgetown Cupcakes. More than 200,000 attendees are expected and entry is free, though a $5 donation is encouraged.